The world's biggest fast food restaurant operator is seeking buyers for its Boston Market, Chipotle Mexican Grill and Donatos Pizzeria restaurants, according to the news site thedeal.com and a report in Thursday's Chicago Tribune. They each cited unidentified sources familiar with the plans.

The reports said the company is talking to private equity firms about buying a controlling stake in its Partner Brands Division.

Oil prices hit high since start of war

Oil prices rose above $30 a barrel Thursday for the first time since war broke out in Iraq, as concerns about worldwide supplies replaced early hopes for a quick end to the military conflict.

The price of oil on futures markets has risen nearly 13 percent since last Friday, when it dropped to a three-month low.

For now, oil traders are retreating from the view of ample supplies that emerged during the first 48 hours of the war.